The two countries have gradually deepened their political and military ties since Russia launched its full-scale war of aggression in Ukraine in February 2022.
In the letter, Kim Jong-Un describes Vladimir Putin as his "dearest friend and comrade", reports the North Korean state news agency KCNA. Kim also expresses a desire to "form and drive new projects" after what he calls a "meaningful journey" during 2024.
In a possible reference to the war in Ukraine, Kim writes that he hopes 2025 will be the year when "the Russian army and people defeat neo-Nazism and achieve a great victory". The USA and South Korea have accused North Korea of sending more than 10,000 soldiers to fight on Russia's side in Ukraine.
According to North Korean state media, Putin has sent a similar message to Kim, in which he praises the close ties between the two countries.
China's President Xi Jinping has also sent a New Year's greeting to Putin, in which he promises to work for world peace.
"Regardless of how the international situation changes, China will remain unwavering in further deepening reforms and promoting world peace and development", Xi is quoted as saying by the state TV company CCTV.
